By: Jennifer Eckley
When I entered graduate school in the fall, I knew that an internship was part of the requirement to graduate. I thought to myself that this was another useful opportunity to bulk up my resume a little bit more with marketing experience. Little did I know that I was going to be given the opportunity to do a whole lot more.
I’ve had previous internships before and through those internships I have learned a lot about what I enjoy doing (and what I don’t). One thing that I learned is that it is important for me to work somewhere that is making a difference in the world. Being a part of that positive impact gives me a drive to inspire others through my work. Going into an internship everyday where my work is contributing to something positive and is actually helping the world is powerful and motivating. Here at TerraCycle, I feel all of these things.
I learned about TerraCycle during undergrad when I was speaking with friends who had completed internships here. So I decided to do some research on the company and see if it would be a good fit for me to apply for a marketing internship. Right away, I knew that I wanted to be a part of this company and its mission. Not only is TerraCycle trying to help save the environment through recycling, they are doing it in a fun and unique way. Not to mention that it is only a 20 minute drive from my house. I mean how cool is it that I live so close to something so influential in the world?
I am starting on my fourth week and I have to say it feels like I have been here for so much longer. One reason is that I am extremely comfortable here. It has everything to do with the people I am surrounded by. Everyone is welcoming and included me in everything from day one. Each member of the marketing department took time out of their (busy) day to discuss their area of expertise and how it fits into TerraCycle’s overall marketing vision. I really enjoyed and appreciated learning about every angle of the department and how they contribute to the bigger picture.
Another reason is that I am being bombarded (in a good way) with knowledge. They put a lot of faith in their interns, which I am finding to be highly rewarding. I have been provided numerous opportunities to prove myself and put my experience to the task. I love being able to get creative and produce work that TerraCycle can benefit from. I leave here everyday feeling like I have contributed to their mission and that is pretty amazing.
Needless to say, I am loving it here and am learning a bunch about marketing (and the world). An internship that I thought would just be experience on my resume has turned into a lot more and I am thankful for that.